Arkansas Announces Rollout of Enhanced Driver’s License
Arkansas residents will soon have the option to apply for an enhanced driver’s license, starting in the fall of this year. The enhanced driver’s license, or EDL, will be available to residents who wish to have a form of identification that is compliant with the Real ID Act and can be used for both driving and crossing borders to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has been working on implementing the EDL program for several months, in preparation for the rollout later this year. The EDL will feature additional security features and meet the federal requirements for identification purposes, making it a valuable option for residents who frequently travel between the United States and the countries mentioned above.
“We are excited to offer the enhanced driver’s license to our residents,” said Secretary of State John Doe. “This new option will provide added convenience and security for those who need to travel internationally, while also ensuring that our residents have a compliant form of identification that meets the federal standards.”
In order to apply for an enhanced driver’s license, residents will need to bring additional documentation to their local DFA office, including proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and proof of identity. The cost for an EDL will be higher than a standard driver’s license, to cover the additional security features and processing fees.
The DFA will also be implementing new technology to produce the enhanced driver’s licenses, including biometric data and RFID chips that will store the cardholder’s information electronically. This will make it easier for border agents to verify the authenticity of the card and ensure that the holder is who they claim to be.
“We are committed to keeping our residents safe and secure, both at home and abroad,” said Secretary Doe. “The enhanced driver’s license will provide an added layer of security for those who need to travel internationally, while also streamlining the process for border crossings and reducing the risk of identity theft.”
Residents who are interested in applying for an EDL can visit the DFA website for more information on the required documentation and fees. The DFA will also be hosting informational sessions at local offices to answer any questions and assist residents with the application process.
Arkansas joins a growing number of states that have already implemented enhanced driver’s license programs, in response to the Real ID Act and federal requirements for identification. The rollout of the EDL in Arkansas is part of a broader effort to enhance security and streamline the process for travelers, while also ensuring that residents have access to compliant forms of identification.
“We are confident that the enhanced driver’s license will be a valuable option for our residents who need to travel internationally,” said Secretary Doe. “We are committed to providing top-notch service to our residents and ensuring that they have the resources they need to travel safely and securely.”
The enhanced driver’s license program is scheduled to launch in the fall of this year, with applications being accepted at local DFA offices. Residents who are interested in applying for an EDL are encouraged to start gathering the necessary documentation and preparing for the application process. The DFA will continue to provide updates on the rollout of the program and any new developments in the coming months.
